Personal Statement

Architectureisthegreatestofthearts,anditencompassesthinkingthatotherartsdontevendealwith.
Likerelationshipoftheworktotheindividualhumanbeing.
(Richard Meier, 2007)
Architecture has always been a perfect fit for me, I have always been passionate about art and people. I
think the moment the concept of becoming an architect really dawned on me, was at age 10 during a
family vacation to New York. Stepping out into New Yorks vast urban jungle with its sky scraping sparkling
structures, left me with a burning desire to make my own contribution to the built world. It also ignited a
fascination with urban environments in particular those around me.
Growing up near the London docklands I have witnessed, how the area has been regenerated over the
years. The designs of architects have transformed the docklands from a derelict waste land (BBC, 2014),
to one of the most desirable places to live and work in the UK. The topic of regeneration and gentrification
is one I would like to look at further during my MArch studies. I have been noting the recent developments
in Hackney (east London) and the current influx of the middle class into the area. I would like to research
into, the ways in which architects can integrate diverse social groups through design.
I believe that architects have a part to play in the social dynamics of our communities and it is our
responsibility to consider the social sustainability of our projects. David Ajaye is an architect, whom I
admire for being socially driven in his work. He manages to design buildings which both belong to yet
diverge from their contexts. His practice (Ajaye associates) is the type of firm I would like to work for
because of their drive to meet the diverse needs of the communities they serve.
As an architect I would like to make an impact on communities, by creating places people enjoy to live in
and social environments that draw people together. However before I can be qualified as an architect it is
essential for me to complete my academic study and attain RIBA Part 2 exemption. I believe De Montfort
University is the right place for me to complete the next stage of my journey.
Having already studied at the university, I am already familiar with the structure of the course and
excellent facilities provided. Even though I did not achieve the results I believe I was capable of, I cannot
fault the support of the staff and tutors. During final year I was faced with some medical difficulties
involving tendonitis, which I believe hindered me from achieving my full potential.
Since then I have made drastic improvements to my health by attending physiotherapy and adopting a
healthier lifestyle. I have also taken time out to learn Revit and ArchiCAD, which has greatly improved my
productivity and 3D graphic presentation. My time out in practice has developed my detailing skills and
insight into the construction industry. Furthermore, volunteering as a teacher at a technical college has
homed in my fundamental design knowledge. I believe the activities I have undertaken after my
undergraduate studies, demonstrate my enthusiasm for architecture and my potential as a good candidate
for the course .
Oluwaseyi O Lawal